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Most people think of digital nomads as chasers of the sun and sea, but that is an outdated stereotype! Remote workers are just as diverse as everyone else in their interests and tastes. Many enjoy the thrill of gliding down a snowy slope and a cozy hot beverage by the fire in the evening.
Ski resorts aren’t as popular with digital nomads as warmer destinations mainly because skiing tends to be an expensive pastime. There is equipment hire, slope and lift passes, and the temptation of the après-ski scene. High demand during the best seasons pushes prices up. For digital nomads on a budget, this can be a barrier.
But if you do your research, and moderate your hot chocolate intake, there are ski destinations that are both high quality and affordable and offer essential services for digital nomads such as decent Wi-Fi and coworking spaces.
With these criteria in mind, we have come up with a list of 10 digital nomad-friendly ski resort destinations that tick all these boxes and might be worth visiting this ski season.
You can also learn more about the growing Snowmadism trend here.
The Criteria
Before jumping into our ten picks, I thought it would be worth sharing our criteria, so you can check if our priorities match yours and consider other locations in the same way.
- Needs descent slopes with a variety of options for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers.
- Should have consistently good snow coverage during the ski season. This time we are looking at the Northern Hemisphere, so between December and March.
- Have a relatively accessible visa for visitors, which means either 90-day visa-free travel for most nationalities or good visa options for digital nomads.
- Represents value for money with affordable accommodation available close to the slopes and relatively cheap lift passes.
- Adequate internet coverage, even in accommodations close to the slopes.
- A digital nomad community in the vicinity, at least in the nearest large city.
What do you think? Does our list match yours?
Livigno, Italy
Livigno is renowned for its high-quality snow, thanks to its location near the Swiss border and altitude, which ensures a longer skiing season often extending from November to May. The area offers around 115km of slopes, catering mainly to beginners and intermediate skiers or snowboarders. However, advanced skiers are not left out, with two challenging black runs and various off-piste opportunities for a thrilling experience.
The town has a charming Alpine atmosphere, with traditional architecture and a vibrant local community. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy traditional Italian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the regional culture. The après-ski scene is lively, with numerous bars and restaurants offering a chance to unwind and socialize after a day on the slopes.
Prices are generally competitive, especially considering Livigno’s tax-free status, which often results in lower costs for services and amenities compared to other Alpine resorts.
There is even an excellent coworking space in the area called Mottolino.
Les Houches, France
Les Houches provides a unique skiing experience with its gentle slopes and jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc. The resort is particularly suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers, but it also has enough to keep advanced skiers engaged. The quality of snow is generally excellent, benefiting from the resort’s altitude and climatic conditions, which ensure a reliable snow cover throughout the season.
Les Houches offers a range of lift pass options, from single-day passes to extended passes that cover the entire Mont-Blanc region, with prices varying based on duration and coverage.
While visiting you can also explore the charming hamlets in the area and indulge in Savoyard culinary delights. The après-ski scene, though more laid-back than in some larger resorts, still offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and socializing.
If you are looking for coworking spaces, check out Mont Blank Base Camp.
Lenk, Switzerland
If you want a traditional Swiss Alps skiing experience, then coworking at Lenk is an excellent choice. The village is located just an hour away from Bern close to some of the best slopes in the country.
You will get access to around 200 kilometers of slopes, 60% of which are technically maintained and guaranteed for safety. Snowboarders can take on Gran Masta Park on the east side of the village.
Consider checking into the Lenk workation to connect with like-minded digital nomads. The area attracts digital nomads throughout the year, so you will find excellent connectivity and work facilities.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko is renowned for its excellent skiing conditions, particularly appealing to beginners and intermediates. The resort boasts over 75 km of ski runs, with a significant portion of these being blue and red runs. The quality of the snow is generally good, benefiting from both natural snowfall and snowmaking facilities. Bansko also offers a range of more challenging runs and off-piste options for advanced skiers.
Since the founding of Coworking Bansko in 2016, the village has attracted many digital nomads, so it is well-equipped to support remote workers and you are sure to meet fellow snow enthusiasts on a similar mission.
Kekes, Hungary
Kekes is Hungary’s highest peak, and while not as expansive as larger Alpine resorts, provides a charming skiing experience, particularly suitable for beginners or those looking for a leisurely ski experience. The area features a modest number of runs, but the snow quality is generally good, especially considering the resort’s altitude, with snowmaking capabilities to supplement natural snowfall.
Lift ticket prices are quite affordable when compared with larger European resorts, and the surrounding region offers a glimpse of traditional Hungarian culture. You are also only an hour and a half’s drive from Budapest if you prefer to stay in the capital.
Hungary offers a digital nomad visa if you want to stay for longer.
Arinsal, Andorra
Arinsal is part of the Vallnord ski area and offers a diverse range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, though it is particularly favored by beginners and intermediates. The resort is known for its well-groomed runs and reliable snow conditions, aided by comprehensive snowmaking facilities.
Arinsal is only a 30-minute drive from the capital, but there is also plenty to do in the village itself with many restaurants and a lively nightlife. Wi-Fi connectivity was upgraded recently, so you can get a good connection despite feeling remote.
Andorra recently made its digital nomad visa official if you want to stay for a little longer.
Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane is about two hours south of Krakow on the Slovakia border and is known as the Winter Capital of Poland. It offers a variety of skiing options, with several ski resorts in the area, such as Kasprowy Wierch, Gubalowka, and Nosal. The quality of snow can be quite good, especially in the peak winter months, and the slopes cater to a range of skiing abilities, from beginner to intermediate. The runs offer beautiful views of the Tatra Mountains, making skiing here a scenic experience.
Zakopane is rich in Polish highland culture, evident in its unique architecture, cuisine, and folklore. Visitors can explore the vibrant Krupowki Street, enjoy traditional Polish cuisine, and experience the local Highlander music and art. The town also serves as a gateway to the Tatra National Park.
There is even a coworking space in the village if you are seeking productivity.
Tatranska Lomnica, Slovakia
Located not far from Zakopane, Tatranska Lomnica is known for having some of the best skiing conditions in Slovakia. It boasts the country’s longest run, which is a significant draw for both intermediate and advanced skiers. The resort offers a variety of runs, with a steep vertical drop that provides an exhilarating experience for skilled skiers.
The region around Tatranska Lomnica is rich in cultural heritage. Visitors can explore traditional Slovak culture, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the natural beauty of the High Tatras. The town itself offers a quaint, tranquil setting with a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Vogel-Bohinj, Slovenia
Vogel-Bohinj is about an hour north-west of Ljubljana by car and is known for its breathtaking alpine scenery and offers a range of ski runs suitable for all levels, though it is particularly favored by intermediate skiers. The resort is renowned for its natural snow quality, which is supplemented by snowmaking facilities. The ski area offers a variety of runs, from wide, gentle slopes for beginners to more challenging terrain for advanced skiers.
The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including Lake Bohinj, which provides a serene backdrop for various outdoor activities.
Poiana-Brasov, Romania
Poiana-Brasov is about three hours north of Bucharest by car. It is known for its well-maintained ski runs suitable for a variety of skill levels. The resort typically has reliable snow conditions, aided by artificial snow-making capabilities. With over 24 km of ski runs, ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to more challenging ones for experienced skiers, Poiana-Brasov caters to a diverse group of winter sports enthusiasts.
The nearby city of Brasov, with its medieval charm, is a hub of history and architecture. Visitors can explore the old town, enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine, and experience local customs and festivals. There are also quite a few coworking Spaces in the city including Hub 1317, The Business Factory, and Kool Werk.
Romania is another country that offers a digital nomad visa if you want to stay for longer.
